Q&A with Josh Lanyon discussion

Anything you'd like to ask about a particular title? Go right ahead!

Hmm questions...
1. When you were writing the first Adrien English story, did you plan on it being more than one novel? Even if it was a supposed to be a one shot, did you know how it would turn out for all involved in the series?
2. How long did it take for you to come up with Strange Fortune? Mapping out the world, the characters, the plot?
3. How did you come up with the idea for The Dark Farewell?

When I very, very first started Fatal Shadows it was going to be a standalone -- and Adrien was going to be the killer. I think you can still see some of the shadows of that in the first couple of chapters. I quickly changed my mind and before the book was halfway through, I knew it was going to be a series and that Jake was going to figure largely into it.

Strange Fortune took almost four months and I've never done so much research or rewriting in my life. It took a lot more outlining and world mapping -- the plot was actually very simple and mirrors a lot of fantasy and old adventure novels. But building that world was intense.

With The Dark Farewell, I wanted to write a ghost story that would perfectly capture the feel of those old, overwrought turn of the (last) century ghost stories -- but I wanted it to be a ghost story about different kinds of ghosts. Physical ghosts, the ghosts of the past, the ghosts of our regretted actions. So, from my perspective, the war and the violence of what has recently occurred in Herrin worked perfectly. And then I find the whole Spiritualism movement really fascinating, so it all sort of worked together.

Josh wrote: "When I very, very first started Fatal Shadows it was going to be a standalone -- and Adrien was going to be the killer. I think you can still see some of the shadows of that in the first couple of ..."

Ever since you first said that Adrien was the killer in the original plot, it makes me wonder how that story would have unfolded. Would it still have been able to have a sequel? What if Jake knew it was Adrien and let him slide? What if the murder was justified? Could we still love Adrien? I've been watching too much Dexter...

Andy wrote: "Josh wrote: "When I very, very first started Fatal Shadows it was going to be a standalone -- and Adrien was going to be the killer. I think you can still see some of the shadows of that in the fir..."

No, there wouldn't have been a sequel. I was uncertain as to whether I was going to kill Adrien off or whether he was going to be allowed to go free, but I did know that Jake was going to end up trying to protect him. It was actually a very dark story in its first conception.

Josh, I thoroughly enjoyed the Dark Horse series, so much so - I purchased the Dangerous Ground books (1&2); I finished Dangerous Ground a couple days ago and immediately went for Old Poisen because I love the characters so much....

How on earth do you keep all the FBI protagonist's characteristics straight in your head? (unintential pun).

Jon wrote: "How on earth do you keep all the FBI protagonist's characteristics straight in your head"

Jon, these characters are all so vivid and so real to me, that it's actually pretty easy. I may get confused on certain fine points -- who drives what, who's allergic to what, etc. -- but the main stuff is clear. (And I keep extensive notes for the other.) *g*

Josh, I couldn't help but notice many similarities between you and Adrien, or at least maybe similarities, because rightly so you protect your privacy. But things like being a Stanford grad, riding horses, enjoying a good glass of wine. Can you answer the question, how much of Adrien's story is also your story?

I want an answer to this one too! (Although I do think we all put a lot of ourselves into protagonists, don't you?)

It's more in the voice and the thoughts/attitude than the particulars. Adrien is probably the character closest to myself as far as my own feelings and thoughts -- it's one reason why he's so easy to write. But there really is a clear and dividing line between the fact and the fiction. His story is fiction and very separate from my own.

I'm a magpie writer. I grab whatever is around me at the time, whatever catches my interest, and throw it into my work -- which is why consecutive books will often explore similar themes and motifes.

Well, I do have a very bad habit of lifting from my own life. And from other people's lives, frankly. Obviously the names and circumstances change, but...I've always found it (relatively) easy to take things that happened to me and translate them into fiction...but in a way that people around me, sometimes even the people involved or who inspired me, will not recognize. I don't know how to describe it other than we writers are sponges. Nothing happens to me that doesn't somehow find its way into my work. As someone mentioned in one of my writing groups, we're creatures of habit, we create patterns, and I think that's why we tend to keep exploring the same themes and concerns in our fiction.

But I digress. *g*

Oshun, I don't write per se, however, I do attempt to teach 9- and 10-year olds how to write and I'm forever explaining to them that it's easiest to write about what you know about. This year I had a particularly gifted student who naturally wrote himself right into his stories. Like Josh, he seemed to prefer to write in the first person and he would tell me that he would lose himself in his characters as he wrote. I find the whole process fascinating and a little bit frightening, truthfully!

So, absolutely, I do think writers put a lot of themselves into their writing. It must be emotionally exhausting!

Hi Josh, since this seems to be the place to ask, I have no idea how authors are paid, (and I don't want to know numbers or anything) but does it matter to you (or other authors) whether readers buy paper or e copies of your work, or does it affect the publishers more? I ask because paperbacks cost me a similar amount in the UK or from the US, but downloads are significantly cheaper if I get them from the US. I presume that this is why amazon shorts are not available over here, they will set the system up over here and charge more!

Is there a sequel planned for Someone Killed His Editor?

I love Adrien English but something about the leads in that one drew me in more.

Ooh, Jan, good question. Further to that, does the author's compensation change depending if we purchase ebooks/paperbacks from sites like Amazon or from the publisher? And is there extra kickback to you if we buy from links on your site? After all you do for us, the least we can do is try to make sure you see fruits of your labor!

On a completely unrelated note, I saw a blog the other day where Sean Kennedy and other authors had shared photos of their vision of a character (Simon from Tigers & Devils, in Sean's case). This is probably an amateurish and ridiculous question, but do you have visual models of your characters? I keep trying to figure who would play Adrien & Jake in a movie version, but can't place anyone big and butch enough for Jake. I can kinda go with Kerr Smith for Adrien, given the Montgomery Clift thing. (Sorry. Shutting up now.)

I'd like to ask about Mexican Heat... more specifically the sequel. Is that still in the works? If so, any release date available?

I'd also like to ask about Mexican heat, just a different question.. I was re-reading it not long ago (yay book format!)and throughout I was wondering; did you and Laura write it one chapter at a time? Each have a character perspective and take the reins? Or just threw it all together in the mincer and let the wordy goo of awesome tumble out?

There's a clear split of personality, so I kind of assumed... However in both perspectives I recognised some.. Um.. "Josh Colloquialisms." XD

And if it was a I'll take this one, you have that one, sort of thing, which character was mostly yours?

I noticed 'you' allot more this time because the first time I read it, I had no idea who you where and was pleasantly surprised after reading WKhE that it was the same person.(Then the downward spiral started.)

Ooooh yes Kerr Smith is how I picture Adrien, I can't think of anyone for Jake though, maybe a younger version of Barry Van Dyke? Guy makes me think of Jason Issacs as Malfoy in HP, hair dyed appropriately.

Jan wrote: "Hi Josh, since this seems to be the place to ask, I have no idea how authors are paid, (and I don't want to know numbers or anything) but does it matter to you (or other authors) whether readers bu..."


Jan, an author generally gets more from an ebook than a print book, because printing and paper and distribution all cost so much.

Jan wrote: "Hi Josh, since this seems to be the place to ask, I have no idea how authors are paid, (and I don't want to know numbers or anything) but does it matter to you (or other authors) whether readers bu..."

The royalty percentage is significantly higher (I get anywhere from 30 - 60% depending on the publisher) for ebooks, Jan. So although I may not sell much more than a couple thousand copies, I'm making a much more healthy return. I'd have to say when it comes to small and indie press, I find the ebooks more lucrative.

And buying directly from the publishers themselves generally means a higher royalty rate than from a third party vendor.

But I try not to get bossy with readers -- I'm glad they buy anything at all!

Juli wrote: "Is there a sequel planned for Someone Killed His Editor?

I love Adrien English but something about the leads in that one drew me in more."

The book will be called All She Wrote, and I'm working on it (slowly) now. I mean, literally now. *g* I'm so glad you like those characters!

Amber wrote: "Jan wrote: "Hi Josh, since this seems to be the place to ask, I have no idea how authors are paid, (and I don't want to know numbers or anything) but does it matter to you (or other authors) whethe..."

Yes, that's part of it. The other part is most of the indie and niche publishers are using POD technology, which is in some ways extremely expensive (although it doesn't require the large upfront investment a traditional print run does -- and there's no inventory involved).

Mariana wrote: "I'd like to ask about Mexican Heat... more specifically the sequel. Is that still in the works? If so, any release date available?"

No, I'm sorry to say that Laura and I decided not to continue the series together. She may eventually choose to write on her own -- although I know she's very busy with other things right now.

Samantha wrote: "I'd also like to ask about Mexican heat, just a different question.. I was re-reading it not long ago (yay book format!)and throughout I was wondering; did you and Laura write it one chapter at a t..."

Actually, Laura and I very roughly (too roughly) discussed the general plot and then she wrote the first draft. And as she turned out each chapter, I went in and extensively revised and rewrote. It was probably the most inefficient way we could have possibly done it. Had we discussed in depth ahead of time what was going to happen, we'd have saved each other a lot of wear and tear. I ended up cutting out about 40K of Laura's work, the waste of which still makes me feel sick. There was nothing wrong with the work per se, it was that it went in such a different direction from anything I would write -- and of course the book had to be this *collaboration.* That's what readers were expecting, what we had advertised.

When we hit the second half of the book, there were some POV swings that just defied all the rules, and also some plot threads that just couldn't sustain any weight, and as we were running out of time, I got very aggressive with the rewrite, which is where I think some readers notice a slight change in voice. At that point the book was late and I had the next Adrien due, and I just wasn't as careful to keep the tone of the rewrite neutral. Which maybe sort of works because at that point it's "Antonio's" voice telling the story.

Anyway, the long and short of it is both characters were Laura's. They were unquestionably hers as was the whole concept -- which is why if anyone should carry the series on, it should be her. The books would be different, yes, but they would be wonderful.

Rob wrote: "Ooh, Jan, good question. Further to that, does the author's compensation change depending if we purchase ebooks/paperbacks from sites like Amazon or from the publisher? And is there extra kickback ..."

Hi Rob, I want to reassure readers that I'm happy you buy my books at all, so purchase them in whatever format makes you happy.

If it doesn't matter to you, and the convenience is a non-issue, then we get a bigger royalty from ebooks and we get the best royalty rate from the publisher's own website. On top of that, Carina Press is setting authors up as affiliates, so I'll make a little additional if you buy through the links that will be set up on my website -- even if you're buying someone else's book! That's a pretty nice deal.

The one book that I truly wish everyone would purchase in print is Strange Fortune. It's such a beautifully crafted book -- and BEB is such a good, author-centric press turning out such quality work (the old fashioned way with print runs and everything) that I really hope readers will support them.

Rob wrote: "Ooh, Jan, good question. Further to that, does the author's compensation change depending if we purchase ebooks/paperbacks from sites like Amazon or from the publisher? And is there extra kickback ..."

This is probably odd, given the references to Monty Clift, but I never really *see* my characters in a photographic way. I mean, I see them generally, I know what they look like, but I couldn't draw a picture. Same when I read. I'm always intrigued with the actors and physical types readers suggest -- so interesting!

Probably bias.. But I always liked Antonio's part better.. XD but that might be because I Liked Antonio better.. Sometimes I just wanted to slap Gabriel in the back of the head... Anyway.. that answers my question nicely ta.

Josh wrote: "Juli wrote: "Is there a sequel planned for Someone Killed His Editor?

I love Adrien English but something about the leads in that one drew me in more."

The book will be called All She Wrote, ..."

This about made my weekend. I really loved that one when it came out.. and it said book 1 so I have been eagerly waiting ever since.

Josh wrote: "This is probably odd, given the references to Monty Clift, but I never really *see* my characters in a photographic way. I mean, I see them generally, I know what they look like, but I couldn't draw a picture. Same when I read. I'm always intrigued with the actors and physical types readers suggest -- so interesting! "

Whew! I thought I was the only one who did that. I can picture everything clearly until it's time for their close up; then they're all hazy.

Josh wrote: "The one book that I truly wish everyone would purchase in print is Strange Fortune."
Done. Oddly, I've been holding off on that one, Darkling and Dickens. For some reason, the Dickens one fills me with anxiety, even though I know it will be good. Call me crazy.

Thanks for answering. I would rather buy books so that the writers get paid than the likes of amazon etc.
Take care.

Samantha wrote: "Probably bias.. But I always liked Antonio's part better.. XD but that might be because I Liked Antonio better.. Sometimes I just wanted to slap Gabriel in the back of the head... Anyway.. that ans..."

Yes, but Gabriel is the one with the big learning curve, the big growth arc, so it's natural that he starts out a little obnoxious. He's pretty wild in the beginning.

Rob wrote: "Josh wrote: "This is probably odd, given the references to Monty Clift, but I never really *see* my characters in a photographic way. I mean, I see them generally, I know what they look like, but I..."

Exactly. It's in the closeup it gets fuzzy.

The Dickens is quirky. And that makes it a little problematic for some readers. Quirky is not always to everyone's taste.

Thanks for buying, SF. I feel confident that it's a decent fantasy read because I have such faith in Nikki Kimberling, the editor. That woman knows her stuff.

Jan wrote: "Thanks for answering. I would rather buy books so that the writers get paid than the likes of amazon etc.
Take care."

Thanks, Jan. I do really appreciate it.

I was talking to a friend's mother ( She's a crazy big fan, and we usually spend ages chatting about how fabulous your gentlefolk are) And she said that going from Death of a pirate King to The Ghost wore Yellow socks she noticed that the detective agency Adrien went to and the one Nick was employed to (fyi LOVE Nick, Quite possibly more than Jake, crazy I know) was the same company. Now, I didn't see this myself, but is she right? or is she just pulling similarity's from thin air?

Samantha wrote: "I was talking to a friend's mother ( She's a crazy big fan, and we usually spend ages chatting about how fabulous your gentlefolk are) And she said that going from Death of a pirate King to The Gho..."

I never thought about it, but it's possible I used the same resource twice. I kind of like that idea, actually. *g*

*laughs* me too, I was excited when she mentioned it.. but mostly because I love it when books just tie in with one another (especially when its only hinted and you find like.. A little Easter egg. XD)

Thanks I'll tell her - im sure it'll make her day. (She's reading Dark Tide ATM and is remarkably impressed with your knowledge of valve Surgery 'cause her husband had it a couple years back.)

Samantha wrote: "*laughs* me too, I was excited when she mentioned it.. but mostly because I love it when books just tie in with one another (especially when its only hinted and you find like.. A little Easter egg...."

I enjoy that too. *g*

And I enjoy sprinkling them in for the watchful reader.

Josh wrote: "And I enjoy sprinkling them in for the watchful reader.
"

I enjoyed finding the titles to the Adrien English books used in the books - usually in the previous one.

Andy wrote: "Josh wrote: "And I enjoy sprinkling them in for the watchful reader.
"

I enjoyed finding the titles to the Adrien English books used in the books - usually in the previous one."

I try to keep the alert reader amused.

I'm not sure if this is the right thread on which to ask this question, but ...

The Adrien English books, especially the first three, are more mystery than m/m the way I read them. And, after reading a bunch of m/m before reading them, that is what made the series so refreshing to me -- the introduction of a different sensibility into the genre of m/m as I knew to that point. What made you turn to other types of writing than mysteries? Most of your writing does have an element or more of mystery writing in it, but do you foresee writing more mysteries?

Maygirl7 wrote: "I'm not sure if this is the right thread on which to ask this question, but ...

The Adrien English books, especially the first three, are more mystery than m/m the way I read them. And, after rea..."

You're correct, the Adrien series falls more comfortably in the gay mystery subgenre.

Partly I turned to m/m because I actually enjoy focusing on the relationship aspects versus the puzzle aspects of the story, partly I turned to it because it's more commercial, and partly I turned to it because I like trying new things and challenging myself in my writing.

The Holmes and Moriarity series is very much a mystery series (though with emphasis on the relationship as in the later Adrien books). Also Fair Game, coming out from Carina Press in August is a solid mystery. Those are the ones that spring immediately to mind.

Thanks for asking.

Josh wrote: "Maygirl7 wrote: "I'm not sure if this is the right thread on which to ask this question, but ...

The Adrien English books, especially the first three, are more mystery than m/m the way I read th..."

I think the reason that I liked "Somebody Killed His Editor" best of your books after the Adrien Englishes is because of the larger share of mystery in it. Well, also, Kit -- he realizes he is being sort of ridiculous a lot of the time but just has to be because that's the way he is. It resonates so much for me. :)

I can appreciate the desire to not get stuck doing one thing, but I am grateful that you have not completely abandoned mysteries.

I can appreciate the desire to not get stuck doing one thing, but I am grateful that you have not completely abandoned mysteries.

I'm glad you enjoy them. They're one of the easiest things for me to write because I've been doing them so long and they're very structured (good for my oft-tired mind).

I finished reading The White Knight and The Dark Horse. It was interesting reading a "prequel" after finishing The White Knight. Did you have that in mind before you wrote the books?

I also have a question about your book titles. They're always very interesting, but perfect for the books. Do you have a particular process for selecting the titles?

I finished reading The White Knight and The Dark Horse. It was interesting reading a "prequel" after finishing The White Knight. Did you have that in mind before you wrote the books?

No. Actually what I wanted to do was to write a story about what might happen AFTER the typical Hollywood fadeout on that kind of falling-in-love-with-the-bodyguard scenario, and that's what I did. But then I had so many requests from readers who just wanted to see that expected scenario where Dan and Sean meet...and I liked the characters a lot, so I came up with an idea that would be both sequel and prequel to try and make everyone happy (including me).

I also have a question about your book titles. They're always very interesting, but perfect for the books. Do you have a particular process for selecting the titles?

Not really. I just think about what the themes of the book are and then I start jotting ideas down. Strange Fortune is the only one that came through brainstorming with the publisher, that I can think of. It was originally, tentatively, titled The White Mountains, but I like Strange Fortune even better.

I am wondering how there are so many reviews for Fair Game when it isn't even out yet? Thanks

Lori K wrote: "I am wondering how there are so many reviews for Fair Game when it isn't even out yet? Thanks"

I think Carina uses NetGalley. I know I don't send review copies anymore unless requested -- partly because of this kind of thing.

Josh, I apologise for whining... but there's a problem with the link to All She Wrote on your site. When I click on it, the contents inclusive the excerpt appear in the sidebar and not on the main page. I can't read the excerpt that way and it's driving me insane. Any chance on fixing that?

Fair Game is, IMO, the best book you've released this year, together with The Darkling Thrush. Congratulations!

Ack! Thanks for letting me know. I'll alert the webguy.

And thank you for the kind words on Fair Game. Very nice to hear!

Are you gonna revisit Elliot and Tucker? Cause I totally feel like I need more. ;)